Debbie Kean, Ex-NJ First Lady, Dies: ‘Model Of Quiet Dignity’

LIVINGSTON, NJ — Deborah Bye Kean, the former first lady of New Jersey, died Friday morning. She was 76.

State Senate President Steve Sweeney issued the following statement on Kean’s passing:

“I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to [former] governor Tom Kean, Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean Jr., my friend and colleague, and to the entire Kean family on the passing of Debbie Kean. Debbie Kean was a model of quiet dignity as first lady who was instrumental in the success of former governor Kean as one of New Jersey’s most popular leaders and admired statesmen. I know that she gained her most cherished satisfaction as a wife, mother and grandmother. Debbie Kean enriched the lives of her family, her friends and the people of New Jersey. Her passing is a loss for all of us.”

U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez also offered a statement of tribute:

"I am very sorry to hear of the passing of former First Lady Deborah Kean. I know that she shared Governor Kean’s unwavering commitment to our great state and the millions of families who live, work and call it home. I share my sincere condolences with Governor Kean, State Senator Tom Kean Jr., Alexandra, Reed, and their families."

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